NEW AADAC STAFF UNDERSTANDS ADDICTS

Two New Edson AADAC Employees Will Try Their Best To Snuff Out Drugs And
Tobacco

AADAC didn't have to go too far to find their new staffers, as Heather
McFadzen, the new addictions counsellor and Bonnie Randall, the half-time
tobacco reduction counsellor, just worked down the hall, at the Child and
Family Services office, as child protection workers.

The women, who both have 20 years experience between them in child welfare
and protection, welcome the change and are excited about their new positions.

As far as AADAC Edson office supervisor Edith Zuidhof-Knoop is concerned,
it's a perfect fit.

"From AADAC's perspective we're really happy to be able to tap into their
knowledge of resources in the community. They're both in the learning phase
but they bring a strong set of personal skills."

On The Job

McFadzen's first day was Aug. 2, while Randall's was last Monday.

Randall figures the battle against smoking cessation is being won.

"There's definitely steps being made. Just look at the restaurants in town."

Over the last two years most Edson and area restaurants have decided to go
smoke-free and the trend continues.

McFadzen will split her time between counselling and education.

Both will make an appearance at the Edson and District Drug Coalition booth
at this week's Edson and District Chamber of Commerce Sidewalk Jamboree.

Both have been touched personally by tobacco or alcohol use in their
respective families.

Personally Affected

"My mother had a stroke due to the fact that she was a heavy smoker," said
Randall, who was once a smoker herself, but quit eight years ago.

McFadzen was affected by addictions use within her family.

Being affected personally by alcohol or drugs will help to reinforce and
strengthen her new personnel's beliefs and the ways they can help other
people, said Zuidhof-Knoop.

"It creates empathy and gives understanding."

Both McFadzen and Randall are pleased that they're working with people who
are willing to make changes in their lives.